Going the extra mile

Ok, let’s talk about pettiness in the Christian community. Do you think it exists? I know it does. The longer I’ve been in ministry, the more I realize Christians struggle with this just as much as non Christians.

What could be an example of this? What if someone gossiped about you at church, or intentially tried to drag your name through the mud? Has someone ever just had one too many opinions about something?

The sad truth is our flesh wants us to hold on to that, to grow bitter, or even worse, get back at them. I’ve struggled myself with this like any human being would. But what God wants is for us to go a little further.

In those moments of hurt, we don’t want to. But imagine the blessing God can provide, or the next level He can bring you to for pushing a little further and choosing to be above the hurt. What if you really chose to stop, say a prayer for that person, and then truly relinquish that hurt to Jesus. What if you went out of your way to do something special for them in a time they likely least expected it? Loving people who have hurt you is a great example of going the extra mile. You don’t have to be their closest friend, but you can be kind, cordial, and loving.

God gave us this option so that we would CHOOSE ourselves to do what is right. Are you ready for your next level? Think of a way you can push past something or someone that is trying to hold you back and keep you down. We submit to God, not to sinfulness.

Isaiah 61:7 is a perfect example of this:

Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.